200hr Training Course Content

*Scroll down for 300hr Course Content

CURRICULUM CONTENT HOURS (as determined by Yoga Alliance)

Teaching, training and practice: 100
Teaching methodology: 25
Anatomy and physiology: 20
Yoga philosophy, lifestyle and ethics for teachers: 30
Practicum: 10
Other: 15
Total: 200

Sanskrit mantra is a vital part of the yogic path; it combines sound, awareness, sense withdrawal, focus, concentration, and meditation. Mantras can be used as a primary practice and can also be combined with the physical practices of yoga. With the increased popularity of yoga today and the abundance of certified yoga teachers around the globe, it is vital to merge these practices with authentic and proper teachings. This one of a kind training is a unique opportunity.

History of Mantra, Scriptural Background, Lineage of Namadeva Acharya

Through lecture we will cover the history of mantra; myth, oral tradition, earliest writings, the Vedas and Upanishads. We will also discuss the history of Sanskrit and the role of mantra from ancient times to present. We will discuss the lineage of Namadeva Acharya, his style of teaching and main contribution to the mantra path.

Learning Objective: Trainees will know the basic history of mantra, scriptural background, the history of the Sanskrit language and the role of mantra from ancient times to present. Trainees will be able to present basic historical information on mantra and be well versed in the style and attributes of the teachings of Namadeva Acharya.

Overview of Yogic Philosophy; Patanjali’s 8-fold Path, Yoga Sutras, Teacher Ethics

Lecture and discussion on Patanjali’s foundational concepts, key thoughts, and effects of practice, with focus on the 8-fold path as a complete system of yoga; Yamas and Niyamas will be integrated into teacher ethics. We will introduce Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras and study a section from each chapter. Also discussed; Karma, Bhakti, Raja, Jnana, Mantra, Hatha Yoga.

Learning Objective: Trainees will understand the Yoga of Patanjali, the 8 steps to realization as a complete, systematic approach. Trainees will be able to apply ethics to their teaching such as truthfulness, non-violence and service to others. Trainees will reflect on the deeper practices of the Yoga Sutras and are invited to dive deeper into these teachings, if desired

Introduction to Seed Sounds, Classical Mantras, Sanskrit Hymns

Through lecture, discussion and group chant immersion we will 1) learn the technical aspect of basic seed sounds, classical mantras and Sanskrit hymns, their meaning, correct pronunciation and applications 2) participate in guided practices of mantra japa meditation (repetition of the word) and recitation of hymns.

Learning Objective: Trainees will learn the fundamentals of Sanskrit as an energy-based language with powerful one-syllable seed sounds, classical mantras and Sanskrit hymns. They will know how to use these mantras, what energies they evoke and how to integrate them into personal practices, asana-yoga classes/body mind modalities and everyday life.

Mantra Japa Meditation: Various Disciplines (both verbal & written), Steps for Practice, Mala Use, Altar Practices

Through lecture, discussion and demonstration students will learn 1) various mantra discipline techniques; 21-day informal, 40-day formal, mantra siddhi and likhita japa (repetition through the written word) 2) steps for practice; choosing a mantra, setting, time of day, spiritual diary 3) introduction to the mala (prayer beads); history, use and maintenance 4) altar practices; the importance, creation and maintenance. Trainees will have the opportunity to exercise this knowledge in practice teach sessions.

Learning Objective: Trainees will be able to advise specific mantra disciplines to students with the techniques and guidelines necessary for a successful personal practice.

Participation in 21-Day and 40-Day Mantra Disciplines

Students will be required to partake in both a 21-day and a 40-day Mantra Discipline, both as a personal practice and as a group sadhana. Through lecture, discussion and small group inquiry, trainees will create and refine their own personal mantra practice. In addition we will discuss the meaning and significance of structured mantra disciplines. Students will be required to submit written assignments on their daily practices to report personal progress.

Learning Objective: Trainees will be able to teach and facilitate students in 21 and 40 day mantra disciplines as spiritual practices, as well as, understand the significance of this type of structured practice.

Anatomy and Physiology, Physical/ Energetic; Chakras, Prana, Nadis, Koshas, Karma

Through lecture, discussion and the use of diagrams, we will 1) study the very basics of human physical anatomy, placement of muscles, bones, organs, glands, etc. 2) study the energetic anatomy and physiology; main chakras, esoteric chakras and their role, 5 types of prana, kundalini energy, the nadis, the 5 koshas or sheaths, as well as, the 4 types of karma. Mantra practices correlating to specific physical and energetic principles will be experienced in class; reading assignments will be given to further study.

Learning Objective: Students will understand the basics of human physical anatomy and will be able to incorporate the many layers of the energetic body into their mantra teachings.

Energetics of Mantra; Sanskrit Alphabet, Pronunciation, Power of Sound; how mantras work directly on our energetic bodies for deep transformation

Through lecture, discussion and group chant we will learn the correlation between our spiritual, energetic anatomy and physiology to the sound vibration of the 50 letters in the Sanskrit alphabet and the 108 beads on a mala. We will learn the correct pronunciation of the Sanskrit alphabet with mouth positions for maximum benefit. We will learn the application of mantras to certain areas of the physical body, as well as, to the chakras, nadis, koshas and karmic life situations.

Learning Objective: Trainees will understand the connection of Sanskrit mantra practice and its benefits to the physical/energetic body. Trainees will be able to teach and apply mantra-based disciplines in accordance to these principles with correct pronunciation.

Yoga, Pranayama, Meditation

Trainees will be guided daily through Hatha Yoga classes, various pranayama techniques and meditation to create balance, increase flexibility, strength and vitality. We will discuss the importance of merging all practices on the 8 limbed path for ultimate purification. Students will also be invited to incorporate yoga, pranayama and meditation into their personal daily practices during the training. Yoga classes will include mantra as a model for application.

Learning Objective: Trainees will obtain benefits from yoga, pranayama, and meditation practices for increased vitality and well-being, as well as, develop conditions ripe for integrating the teachings in the training. Trainees will also be able to effectively teach mantra in yoga classes and other group settings.

Basics of Ayurveda; Doshas, Gunas, Healthy Lifestyle & Daily Self-Care

Through lecture, demonstration, group and personal practice, we will introduce the fundamental principles of Ayurveda; the three doshas, gunas, healthy lifestyle and Dinacharya, the daily routine of self-care. Trainees will be required to choose self-care techniques to practice and provide written assignments that document their experience.

Learning Objective: Trainees will know the fundamental principles of Ayurveda, understand their unique mind and body type (dosha), have tools to live a healthy lifestyle, have the knowledge and experience to apply Dinacharya, the Ayurvedic daily routine of self-care, designed to maintain and reconnect to the circadian rhythms. Trainees will understand the importance of self-care as a teacher to help keep the senses and mind clear and body nourished, understand the use of these practices as a role model to their students, and will be able to incorporate this knowledge to their mantra teachings.

Gods & Goddesses; Principles, Symbology, Application

Through myths, mantras and discussion, we will study a non-dogmatic approach to Gods and Goddesses, Hindu deities, their symbology and energetic importance in the role of transformation and mantra meditation. In addition, we will learn how to apply mantras in this category to specific life conditions and situations.

Learning Objective: Students will be well versed in the symbology, application and energetic importance of Gods and Goddesses.

Transformation through Sacred Art & Vedic Ceremony

Through demonstration and participation with guest artists; 1) Sacred Art; we will create/play/sculpt, as a form of meditation, yantras, mandalas, personalized malas (prayer beads), and murthis (statues/divine spirits) 2) participate in basic Arati Ceremony and traditional Vedic Puja Ceremony (Shodasho-Pachara, 16 form) with lead trainer/pujari/vedic priest, as a way to experience and cultivate additional devotional practices on the Bhakti Yoga path. Sections of this portion of the training will include dynamic group chant.

Learning Objective: Trainees will experience the beauty and power of sacred art designs and be able to lead mantra meditations which incorporate sacred geometry. As we create/sculpt with Guest Artists, trainees will have a personalized mala to practice with and sacred items for their home altar! Trainees will also be introduced to traditional Vedic ceremony to study further, if desired. They will understand the role of mantra in traditional Vedic ceremony as a means for deep transformation

Guest Kirtan Artists; Devotional Music, Song & Mantra

World-renowned Guest Kirtan Artists/Musicians will visit our training to immerse trainees in the sacred sounds of mantra through music and song. An opportunity to quiet the mind, relax and celebrate the yogic path!

Learning Objective: Trainees will experience the celebration of mantra through devotional music and song. Trainees will be able to apply music and mantra into their teachings, if desired.

Mantra Teachings; Class, Workshop, Retreat Design

Through lecture, discussion and small group forum, we will introduce the skillful design of organizing mantra classes, workshops and retreats. We will cover location, clientele, length of offering, and general contents.

Learning Objective: Trainees will be able to design simple mantra classes, workshops and retreats. Trainees will have opportunities to create class outlines with the support of their peers as preparation for practice teach sessions.

The Art of Teaching; General Principles

Through discussion we will cover how to create the optimal learning environment for mantra teaching, in-class communication skills, working with different populations, group teaching verses privates, style and qualities of teaching for maximum benefit, teaching as a service, boundaries and the student/teacher relationship. The art of meeting each student where they are in development and how to assist them in their learning and growth process will be addressed.

Learning Objective: Students will be able to exercise the teaching methods discussed, utilizing these methods during practice teach sessions, receiving feedback and refining their skills.

Mantra as a Business; Key Elements, Vision & Marketing

Lecture and discussion on all key elements of the business aspect of mantra teaching. Trainees will have the opportunity to create a vision statement, business plan and ideas for effective marketing, if desired. What to charge for services and effective financial strategies will also be discussed.

Learning Objective: Students will be well prepared to teach mantra related practices with a personalized business plan, plus financial and marketing strategies in place upon graduation of the training.

Practice Teach Sessions, Certification, Graduation

Trainees will be required to practice teach in small groups throughout the training, applying all techniques and material covered in the program in a variety of different ways 1) facilitating private one-on-one mantra sessions 2) leading group mantra classes/workshops/ retreats 3) incorporating mantra into yoga classes and/or other bodymind modalities. For maximum benefit, including practices of pranayama and meditation instruction within the teachings of mantra is also required. Study group time and one-on-one consultations with the lead trainer for preparation of practice teaches are included. Receiving and giving feedback via feedback forms included. Graduation from the program includes a sacred ceremony to honor the time, commitment and devotion applied to their studies.

Learning Objective: Trainees will refine their skills to teach effectively and with confidence the material covered in the mantra teacher program. Trainees will be well versed in preparation of material, leading/teaching mantra-based practices with a variety of applications, and have the ability to follow up with students where applicable.

300hr Training Course Content

TRAINING CONTENT

• 200hr Mantra Teacher Training Review: Lineage, History, Foundational Terms, Mantra Energetics, Spiritual Physiology, Seed Sounds, Foundational Mantras

• Advanced Teaching Techniques: Mantra Stacking, Class and Workshop Design, Multiple Mantra Disciplines, Added Devotional Practices, Namaha vs. Swaha, Storytelling

• Mantra Therapy Disciplines: Exploring 21 & 40-day practices, Likhita Japa, Mantra Siddhi, Puruscharana

• Sun & Planetary Mantras (with and without seed sounds): Vedic, Tantric and Puranic

• Sanskrit Mantras for Prosperity, World Peace, Addiction, Traumatic Injury, Systematic Disorders, Emotional/Mental Distress, Goddess Mantras, Deity Gayatri Mantras

• Study of the book Ramayana at a Glance by Sadguru Sant Keshavadas, and related Rama/Hanuman mantras

• Study of the book Chakra Mantras by Thomas Ashley-Farrand, and related mantras

• Chakras in the Head and related mantras

• Advanced Chakra Petal Seed Sounds, Mantras and Meditations

• Advanced Mantra Disciplines: Condensed Ganapathi Spiritual Discipline, Guru Spiritual Discipline, Maha Lakshmi Advanced Discipline, Gayatri Mantra Spiritual Discipline, Navarna Sadhana Spiritual Discipline, Maha Mrityunjaya Spiritual Discipline

• How to lead Basic 5-form Arati Ceremony, Template #1 and #2 and a brief Ganesha Puja

• Preparation and participation in 16-form Vedic Puja Ceremony

• Vedic Sanskrit Hymns: Navagraha Stotram, Purusha Suktam, Devi Mahatmyam, Sri Suktam

• Yoga, Meditation and Pranayama

• Practice Teach Mantra Sessions

• Select Kirtans in the lineage of Namadeva Acharya and Sadguru Sant Keshavadas

• Attaining Mantra Siddhi as a group with Seed Sounds

• Independent Study Projects, Possible Off-Site Training, Private Mentoring, Sacred Art Projects

OM EIM SARASWATYAE SWAHA

(For true spiritual knowledge; to improve in the arts, music, science and education)